Question

what is the area of the trapezoid?
5 mi.
9 mi.
8 mi.
4 mi.
square miles
submit

Explanation:

Step1: Recall trapezoid area formula

The formula for the area of a trapezoid is $A = \frac{(b_1 + b_2)}{2} \times h$, where $b_1$ and $b_2$ are the lengths of the two parallel sides (bases) and $h$ is the height (the perpendicular distance between the bases).

Step2: Identify the bases and height

From the diagram, the two parallel sides (bases) are $b_1 = 5$ mi and $b_2 = 4$ mi, and the height $h = 8$ mi.

Step3: Substitute values into the formula

Substitute $b_1 = 5$, $b_2 = 4$, and $h = 8$ into the formula:
\[
A = \frac{(5 + 4)}{2} \times 8
\]

Step4: Simplify the expression

First, calculate the sum of the bases: $5 + 4 = 9$. Then, divide by 2: $\frac{9}{2} = 4.5$. Finally, multiply by the height: $4.5 \times 8 = 36$.

Answer:

36